BASKING RIDGE, N.J. (Somerset County) — Morocco’s national team will base its FIFA World Cup 2026 training camp at The Pingry School in Somerset County, state officials announced.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill joined Moroccan Ambassador to the United States Youssef Amrani and FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry to unveil the team’s plans to train in Basking Ridge for the duration of the tournament.
“New Jersey is thrilled to welcome Morocco – and the rest of the world – to our state for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. New Jersey is home to almost 10,000 residents of Moroccan descent, so we are especially honored that Team Morocco has decided to make our state its home away from home this summer. It is a true testament to New Jersey’s exciting role at the center of the World Cup,” said Governor Sherrill. “We look forward to showcasing New Jersey on the global stage this summer and creating memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and visitors.”
“It was a distinct honor and great pleasure to meet Governor Sherrill today. We had very interesting and fruitful exchanges at the heart of Morocco’s officially announced future team base in New Jersey, The Pingry School,” said Ambassador Amrani. “My deepest gratitude goes to the State of New Jersey and The Pingry School for their exceptional hospitality. Football possesses a unique power to unite nations, and we look forward to fostering enduring bonds throughout this journey.”
Morocco is scheduled to face Brazil at MetLife Stadium on June 13 in one of the tournament’s marquee group stage matchups.
The Pingry School previously served as a training site during the 1994 FIFA World Cup and recently underwent upgrades, including the addition of two international-standard grass fields and modern training facilities.
Officials said Morocco is one of four national teams that will establish training bases in New Jersey during the tournament. Additional teams are expected to train at sites in Morris Township, Galloway and Piscataway, though those teams have not yet been announced.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to draw global attention to the region, with matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium and teams training throughout the state.
